Family and I will be coming to Disney 3rd week of Nov. We have the dining plan & I have been trying to make reservations at restaurants and almost all I have tried has no availability. Do I have to have a reservation or can you just walk up?”

Hi Loria ~

Because dining reservations can be made beginning at 180 days prior to your trip, it can be hard to get reservations. Reservations at table service locations are highly recommended but all is not lost if you haven't been able to get them yet.

I'd recommend that you keep checking the link shown above every few days. You can also try calling 407-WDW-DINE. If you haven't had success prior to your trip, keep checking even once you arrive on property. Guests will make dining reservations early and once their trips get closer and they start firming up their plans, they will cancel them which will free up some reservations.

You could opt for some of your second choices of dining locations or try new places. We've discovered some of our favorites that way. If you don't get Table Service reservations, don't despair. There are also some great quick service locations in the parks. We love Flame Tree Barbecue in Animal Kingdom - yum!!

You can also try walking up. There are also last minute cancellations for a number of reasons or they may be able to squeeze you in. If you want to try walking up, I'd try going just as they start to serve (breakfast, lunch or dinner) so it gives you the widest opportunity. We've been successful at some character dinning locations by walking up. Just be careful if you're trying to do this if you have little ones in your party that may be disappointed if you don't get in. If you decide to try that, you may want to send a "scout" ahead and distract your little ones' attention while you're trying.

There's still time so keep trying. I'll keep my fingers crossed for you!

Please feel free to visit us again with all of your planning questions. We are hEAR for you!

Meet the Panelist: Allison, Georgia

I'm a Disney-fanatic! I made my first trip to Disney World the year it opened and have grown up crazy for all things Disney. As the Mom of a son with Cerebral Palsy, I love providing recommendations for families traveling with a special needs member.Learn More About Allison

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